A study of the Knysna street children

Abstract:

The aim and objectives of this study was to discuss South African establishments serving street children in terms of facilities and services offered; to ascertain from literature what social work's response to street children should be; and to achieve a profile of the Knysna street children by way of interview schedules and analysis of case studies, in an attempt to facilitate the formulation of appropriate facilities, programmes and intervention strategies for this population by the Knysna Child and Family Welfare Society. Findings of the study indicated that the Knysna street child was typically a male Black or Coloured child, aged 12 years 6 months, who emanated from both proclaimed and unproclaimed Knysna areas. Alcohol coupled with physical abuse by parents/caregivers was the major reason for children resorting to street life, and the average length of time working on the streets was 1 to 2 years. Street groups had ill-defined membership and boundaries, and were united for reasons of companionship and comaraderie. Most children engaged in more than one income-generating activity, with the main activity being begging. The majority of street children spent their income on food for themselves. The majority of street children did not attend school, and the average standard of education was between a standard 1 and 2 level. The major reasons for school non-attendance were a preference for street life, and school-related problems. The largest category of children expressed clothes and shoes to be their most pressing need, and were unsure of their future vocational aspirations. The majority of street children had had contact with the Knysna Child and Family Welfare Society by way of the 1993 soup kitchen.